"There is hope, and part of that hope comes from our profession," TBA President Sherie Edwards writes in her recent column. "As lawyers, we are uniquely situated and trained to be leaders both in the practice of law and in our communities. We can model agreeable disagreement and bring civility to our conversations. We can stand up for those who can’t stand up for themselves. And, when given the opportunity, we can nurture the next generation of lawyer leaders by our example." In her column she gives examples of the many ways lawyers can lead.

Each year the Tennessee Bar Association recognizes outstanding service by attorneys and law students who have dedicated their time to helping others. The awards given are the Harris Gilbert Pro Bono Volunteer of the Year, the Ashley T. Wiltshire Public Service Attorney of the Year, the Law Student Volunteer of the Year and the CASA Volunteer of the Year. Read the stories about Ashley Goins Alderson (by Barry Kolar), Ann Pruitt (by Liz Todaro), Gabriella “Gabby” Cannone (by Kate Prince) and Russell Nellis (by Ateia Aldridge).

Two candidates are running to become president of the Tennessee Bar Association in 2024. Nashville attorney Ed Lanquist of Patterson IP Law and Franklin attorney David Veile of Schell & Oglesby are in the race to become vice president of the organization. The vice president ascends to president-elect in 2023 and president in 2024. Also, three candidates have filed to fill the two Middle Grand Division Governor positions. They are Nashville attorneys Mary Dohner-Smith and Billy Leslie and Fayetteville attorney Zach Jones. Online voting began March 1 and continues through April 1. Read more, as well as about other legal news from around the state.

The Tennessee Bar Journal is accepting immediate submissions for publication, including articles (up to about 3,500 words), as well as specific subject-area, column-length (1,200 words) pieces. Writers with diverse backgrounds and experience levels are especially encouraged to submit. Get more detailed information in the TBJ's Writer's Guidelines.

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